Sidewalk Repair

In an effort to make Aspen safer for pedestrians, and as a service to property owners, the Engineering Department conducts an annual inspection of sidewalks to identify tripping hazards. If you have received a Sidewalk Repair Notice in the mail,the sidewalk adjacent to your property is in need of repair. Property owners are responsible for the maintenance and repair of sidewalk in front of, abutting or servicing their property. This inspection and notice are provided for your protection, as well as the safety of the citizens and visitors of our city.

What Constitutes a Hazardous Sidewalk?

The City of Aspen Municipal Code 21.16.090 describes a sidewalk as being hazardous if it exhibits one or more of the following characteristics:

(a) Concrete that is spalling or crumbling.

(b) Vertical Displacement of the adjoining sidewalk section is in excess of three-quarters (3/4) inch;

(c) Lateral displacement of adjoining sidewalk section is in excess of one (1) inch; or

(d) The sidewalk has a transverse slope in excess of one (1) inch per foot, or the combination of transverse or longitudinal grade is insufficient for adequate drainage of the sidewalk causing accumulation of water and ice.

How Do I Repair My Sidewalk?

Addressing sidewalk hazards can be a variety of things that are dependent on the type of hazard. The engineering department suggests the following types of repairs:

(a) Grinding the sidewalk is typically the method used to address vertical displacements in the walking path. When grinding, keep in mind that the slope of the grinded area must not exceed 1 inch per foot.

(b) Grouting a gap or spalling sidewalk is also another adequate repair method. We recommend using epoxy grout to provide a more durable fix.

(c) Replacing a sidewalk may be necessary for areas that are beyond repair. When replacing sidewalk, keep in mind that a ROW permit and a licensed, bonded contractor is required to complete the work. The ROW permit fee will be waived for a projects addressing Sidewalk Repair Notices

What Happens if I Don’t Make Repairs?

You are given 90 days to make any necessary repairs to your sidewalk. If repairs are not completed within the 90 day period, the City may complete the repairs and send adjacent property owners an invoice for the work. If payment is not made within 90 days after receipt of invoice, the cost will be placed as a lien on the property.

To view a photo of the specific hazard associated with your property, click on the link below to the "Sidewalk Repair Needed by Address" and search for the address defined at the top of your Sidewalk Repair Notice letter.